Mississippi Criminal Law BlogWhy is Welfare Fraud So Common in Mississippi?
Mississippi has been dealing with serious welfare fraud issues over the last few years. Whether politicians or common folk are taking this money illegally, welfare fraud is always illegal. It goes without saying that this money is set aside for those who are desperate, and the law looks unkindly upon anyone who attempts to circumvent or take advantage of this system. But why exactly is welfare fraud so common in the Magnolia State? Why do people engage in these crimes when the consequences can be so severe? The truth is that many people might not be aware of the legal penalties of welfare fraud. Let’s cover some of these consequences in more depth:
Mississippi’s Infamous Welfare Fraud Fiasco
Governor Phil Bryant is perhaps the most well-known “criminal” when it comes to welfare fraud in Mississippi, as he apparently planned to take money from a government program. This program just so happened to be geared toward helping destitute children. The funds were then redirected to Brett Favre, a former Green Bay Packers quarterback. The funds were apparently supposed to be used to build a new volleyball facility at a university attended by Favre’s daughter.
A number of people faced criminal charges and prison sentences, including well-known celebrities and athletes. John Davis, director of one of the programs, was sentenced to 90 years in prison. Favre faced civil penalties, and a head of a non-profit recently faced up to 10 years in prison. Phil Bryant may be investigated further, and charges for the governor are not out of the question.
Individuals Can Face Charges as Well
Aside from wealthy politicians and celebrities, normal people can face serious penalties for welfare fraud in Mississippi as well. On April 5, 2023, it was reported that a woman from Picayune had pleaded guilty to “theft of public money.” She had apparently been collecting benefits under two separate Social Security numbers, effectively allowing her to receive welfare payments even while working a normal job. The 69-year-old eventually admitted that she had been receiving Disability Insurance Benefits and Supplemental Security Income using one social security number. Using another social security number, she got a job and received a steady income. Speaking about the crime, a Special Agent of the SSA stated:
“She misused SSA programs and numbers for her own gain; her actions not only defrauded the Disability Insurance Benefit program but also the Supplemental Security Income program, a critical safety net for those in need. This plea will hold her accountable for the fraud she committed against SSA and taxpayers. I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the Southern District of Mississippi and the Western District of Oklahoma for their work in prosecuting this case.”
This woman faces a maximum of 10 years in prison and up to $250,000 in fines. Note that this is the same maximum sentence faced by the head of the non-profit, who was accused of being involved in the aforementioned welfare scandal.
Types of Welfare Fraud
Defendants may commit welfare fraud in a number of different ways:
- Underreporting Income: The most obvious form of welfare fraud is underreporting your income in an attempt to get welfare payments that you would otherwise be ineligible for. Note that “income” includes things like inheritance, lottery winnings, and other funds that are not limited to employment income.
- Lying About Dependents: You might also lie about the size of your household and the number of dependents living under your care. For example, saying that you have six children when you really only have two can seriously inflate your welfare payments.
- Selling Food Stamps: Selling food stamps for cash is highly illegal. This fuels a black market that can cause serious issues with the US economy. This is why in some cases, the FBI may investigate these crimes.
- Creating False Identities: This is the same crime committed by the aforementioned woman from Picayune. Although details were never revealed, she could have been using the social security number of a deceased spouse whose passing was never reported. This is just one example of how a fake identity can allow you to collect fraudulent welfare payments.
- Receiving Out-of-State Benefits: Collecting welfare from two different states is also highly illegal.
Where Can I Find a Qualified Criminal Defense Attorney in Mississippi?
If you have been searching for an experienced criminal defense attorney in Mississippi, look no further than Vic Carmody Jr., P.A. Over the years, we have helped numerous defendants in the Magnolia State. If you have been charged with welfare fraud, credit card fraud, or any other type of fraud, you need to get in touch immediately and book a consultation. During this consultation, we can discuss your specific situation and determine the best possible defense strategy. Reach out today to get started.